Name: Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 red bell pepper, deseeded and diced; 1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half; 8 ounces baby spinach; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 green onions, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated); 1 pound ground beef; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons crumbled feta (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a weeknight hero that bursts with color, flavor, and wholesome comfort, this Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is the answer to your kitchen prayers. Imagine juicy cherry tomatoes, tender baby spinach, and aromatic garlic mingling with browned ground beef, all tied together with Mediterranean herbs and a pop of creamy feta. It’s vibrant, speedy, and endlessly versatile, promising a crave-worthy meal that’s just as good the next day as it is fresh from the skillet.

Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the reasons I love this Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is how every ingredient brings something unique to your plate—no filler, just bold, fresh flavors in perfect harmony. Grab these essentials and let each component shine in its own way!

Olive oil: The classic base for Mediterranean cooking, lends a rich, fruity aroma and helps marry all the flavors together.
Red bell pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color that will brighten up your whole dish.
Cherry tomatoes: When blistered, they burst with juicy sweetness and create a lovely, natural sauce.
Baby spinach: Tender, mild, and full of nutrients, the spinach wilts down and soaks up all those delicious juices.
Garlic: Essential for deep flavor and that mouthwatering Mediterranean aroma; don’t skimp!
Green onion (white and green parts): Gives a zippy bite and pop of freshness, divided for maximum impact.
Ground beef: Hearty and savory—the star protein that brings the whole stir fry together.
Dried oregano: Just a hint transforms the entire pan into a Mediterranean escape.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To balance and elevate all the other flavors.
Crumbled feta (optional): Adds a creamy finish and tangy punch right before serving.

How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

Step 1: Sauté the Tomatoes and Bell Pepper

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced red bell pepper and sliced cherry tomatoes, letting them sizzle and soften for 4 to 5 minutes. You’ll notice the tomatoes start to blister and become deliciously saucy—just what you want! Now, add your minced garlic and let everything cook for another minute, giving off that mouthwatering aroma.

Step 2: Wilt the Spinach and Onion Whites

Next, stir in the baby spinach and the white parts of the sliced green onion. Don’t worry if your pan looks overwhelmingly full at first—the spinach will quickly wilt down. Keep stirring for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach is just tender but still bright green. Once ready, transfer this gorgeous veggie mixture to a plate and set aside for a moment.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add your ground beef to the same pan, along with the dried oregano, a good sprinkle of kosher salt, and plenty of black pepper. Break the meat up with a spatula as it cooks, and let it brown nicely so it picks up extra flavor. Once cooked through, drain off any excess grease—this keeps your Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry from getting heavy.

Step 4: Return Veggies & Warm Everything Through

Now comes the magic moment! Add your sautéed veggies and the green parts of the green onion back to the pan. Give everything a gentle stir and allow it to warm through, soaking up all those wonderful Mediterranean spices. You’re almost there, and your kitchen probably smells amazing by now!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle over as much crumbled feta as your heart desires (or keep it dairy-free if you like). The feta melts just slightly from the heat, turning your Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry into a mosaic of creamy, zesty, herby goodness. Serve right away and get ready for rave reviews!

How to Serve Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

Garnishes

Garnishing is where you can let your personality shine! A generous handful of crumbled feta is classic, but you can also add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lemon, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill. These simple touches make your Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry look and taste extra special.

Side Dishes

This stir fry pairs beautifully with so many sides. Fluffy couscous or nutty quinoa work effortlessly to soak up all those pan juices. You can also serve it over steamed rice, with toasted pita bread for scooping, or alongside a crisp cucumber salad to refresh your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to play with presentation! Spoon the Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry into lettuce cups for a light, hand-held version, tuck it into warm pita pockets for an on-the-go lunch, or plate it mezze-style with other Mediterranean appetizers like hummus and olives for a festive spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extras (lucky you!), let the stir fry cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, and the flavors melt together beautifully overnight.

Freezing

This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry freezes surprisingly well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers (leaving off the feta until you’re ready to serve), and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the stir fry gently in a skillet over medium heat until hot. If it needs a bit of moisture, splash in a tablespoon of water or broth. For a quick meal, the microwave works fine, too—just reheat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between for even warming.

FAQs

Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives can be used in place of beef, though flavors and textures may vary slightly. The Mediterranean sauce and veggies play nicely with any option.

Is this Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry spicy?

Nope, it’s savory and full of fresh flavors, but there’s no heat in the recipe as written. If you like a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes works wonders at the end.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

You can! Thaw and squeeze out any extra water before adding it to the pan. Fresh spinach will offer brighter color and flavor, but frozen certainly works for convenience.

What is the best way to meal-prep this stir fry?

Simply prepare the Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry up to two days in advance and store in the fridge. Hold off on the feta and fresh herbs until you’re serving to keep things extra fresh and tasty.

How do I keep the veggies from getting soggy?

The best way is to avoid overcooking them, and to sauté at medium-high heat so they caramelize without steaming. Always stir back in at the last minute for a crisp, vibrant finish.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking to shake up your weeknight dinners or need a recipe that’s sure to impress, give this Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry a spot in your rotation. It’s full of color, wonderful aromas, and feel-good flavors—just the kind of meal I know you’ll come back to again and again.